Vintage Bobcat Snowblower: The Ultimate Guide to Restoration
That old snowblower sitting in the corner of the garage might be more than just a piece of forgotten machinery. For enthusiasts of vintage equipment, a classic Bobcat snowblower is a testament to American manufacturing and durability. But bringing one of these workhorses back to life presents a unique set of challenges.
Many owners of these older machines face the frustrating problem of finding reliable information, sourcing parts, and understanding the quirks of their specific model. This guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to restoring your vintage Bobcat snowblower, turning a potential headache into a rewarding project.
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The Legacy of Bobcat: More Than Just Skid Steers
While the Bobcat name is synonymous with skid steer loaders, the company’s history is rooted in solving practical problems, including snow removal. The journey began in the 1950s when brothers Louis and Cyril Keller developed a compact loader to help a Minnesota turkey farmer clean his barns. This invention laid the groundwork for the agile and tough equipment Bobcat is known for today.
Interestingly, the walk-behind Bobcat snowblowers were not manufactured by the same company famous for loaders. They were produced by the Wisconsin Marine Company and later by its successors. Despite this distinction, they share a reputation for robust construction and powerful performance, making them prized possessions for those who appreciate well-built machinery.
Identifying Your Vintage Model: A Crucial First Step
Before you can begin restoration, you need to know what you have. Bobcat walk-behind snowblowers from the vintage era, roughly the 1960s through the early 1980s, came in various models. Look for a metal tag on the body of the snowblower that contains the model and serial number. Common models include the 820 and various units designated by their horsepower and clearing width, such as “T5-2-20” for a 5-horsepower, 20-inch model.
The handlebar design can also offer clues; early models often featured “T” shaped handlebars, while later versions moved to a “Y” shaped design. Understanding your specific model is key to finding the correct manuals, diagrams, and replacement parts.
Common Problems and Solutions for Vintage Bobcat Snowblowers
Decades of use and storage can lead to a predictable set of issues. The most common problems involve the engine, fuel system, drive mechanism, and rust. Tackling these systematically will make the restoration process manageable and successful.
Engine and Fuel System Revival
The heart of your snowblower is its engine, typically a rugged Briggs & Stratton or Tecumseh. If the engine won’t start, the problem often lies within the fuel system or the ignition.
Fuel System Troubleshooting: Old gasoline is a primary culprit for starting issues. Over time, fuel breaks down, leaving varnish and deposits that clog the carburetor’s tiny jets. The first step is to safely drain all old fuel from the tank and carburetor bowl. Inspect the fuel lines for cracks or stiffness and replace them if necessary.
A thorough carburetor cleaning is almost always required. This involves disassembling the carburetor, carefully cleaning all jets and passages with carburetor cleaner, and reassembling with new gaskets. Many owners find that a simple cleaning brings a dormant engine back to life.
Ignition System Checks: If the fuel system is clean and the engine still won’t start, turn your attention to the ignition. A worn or fouled spark plug is a common and easy fix. If a new spark plug doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to check for a consistent spark using an inline spark tester. A weak or non-existent spark could point to issues with the magneto or ignition coil.
Drive and Auger System Repairs
The components that move the snowblower and throw the snow are just as critical as the engine. Belts, chains, and gearboxes are common points of failure.
Belts and Chains: Inspect all drive belts for cracks, fraying, or glazing. Vintage Bobcat snowblowers often use both a drive belt for self-propulsion and an auger belt. Finding the correct replacement belt is crucial; user forums can be an invaluable resource for cross-referencing part numbers. Don’t forget to inspect the drive chains for rust and stiff links; proper lubrication is key to their longevity.
Friction Disc and Gearbox: The friction disc is a wearable part that transfers power to the wheels. If your snowblower struggles to move, the rubber on this disc may be worn out. Similarly, the auger gearbox requires proper lubrication. Check the oil or grease level and replace it according to the manufacturer’s specifications to prevent catastrophic failure.
The Restoration Process: From Rust to Glory
A full restoration goes beyond mechanical repairs. Bringing the machine back to its original aesthetic glory is a deeply satisfying part of the process. This involves disassembly, rust removal, and painting.
Proper Disassembly and Surface Preparation
Take your time during disassembly, taking numerous photos and labeling parts and hardware. This will be your roadmap for reassembly. Once disassembled, the focus shifts to surface preparation, which is the most critical step for a lasting paint job.
Use a wire wheel on an angle grinder or drill to remove heavy rust and old paint. For lighter rust, sanding by hand will suffice. A thorough cleaning with a degreaser is necessary to remove any oil or contaminants before priming and painting.
Painting for a Factory Finish
For a durable finish that stands up to the harsh winter environment, consider using a high-quality industrial enamel paint. While some restorers opt for powder coating for maximum durability, a carefully applied spray paint can yield excellent results.
Applying a good primer designed for bare metal is essential. Follow this with several light coats of your chosen color. Many enthusiasts use “Bobcat White” or a similar shade to achieve an authentic look. Applying a clear coat can add an extra layer of protection and gloss.
Sourcing Parts: The Treasure Hunt
Finding parts for a machine that may be 50 years old can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. The internet has made this “treasure hunt” significantly easier.
Online Resources: Websites like eBay are a great source for new old stock (NOS) and used parts. Specialized online small engine parts retailers also carry a surprising number of components like belts, carburetor kits, and ignition parts. Additionally, online forums dedicated to snowblowers and vintage machinery are communities of knowledgeable enthusiasts who can often point you in the right direction.
Local Small Engine Shops: Don’t underestimate the value of your local small engine repair shop. Often, experienced mechanics have catalogs of older parts or know of compatible substitutes that can get your machine running. They can be a fantastic resource, especially for engine-specific components.
| Component | Common Issue | Recommended Action | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Will not start | Clean carburetor, replace spark plug, check for spark. | Medium |
| Fuel Tank & Lines | Leaking or clogged | Drain old fuel, replace fuel lines, inspect tank for rust. | Easy |
| Drive Belts | Cracked or worn | Replace with new, correctly sized belts. | Easy |
| Tires | Dry-rotted or won’t hold air | Replace tires and/or inner tubes. | Easy |
| Auger/Impeller | Not turning or throwing snow | Inspect belts, chains, and shear pins. Check gearbox lubrication. | Medium |
| Body/Frame | Heavy rust | Disassemble, sand/wire wheel to bare metal, prime and paint. | Hard |
| Cables | Sticking or broken | Lubricate with penetrating oil or replace. | Easy |
Is a Vintage Bobcat Snowblower Worth It?
Restoring and owning a vintage Bobcat snowblower is not for everyone. It requires patience, mechanical aptitude, and a bit of detective work. However, the rewards are significant. These machines were built with a level of quality and heavy-gauge steel that is rare in modern equipment. When properly restored, a vintage Bobcat can be a reliable workhorse for decades to come.
Beyond its utility, there is the satisfaction of preserving a piece of industrial history. A fully restored vintage snowblower is not just a tool; it’s a conversation piece and a tangible link to a time when machines were built to last. For the right person, the challenge is part of the appeal, and the result is a powerful, durable machine that stands out from the plastic-clad blowers of today. If you’re experiencing other home maintenance issues, you might find solutions for problems like a gap between your chimney and house can be just as rewarding to solve.
